U.S. patent number 9,265,909 [Application Number 13/141,201] was granted by the patent office on 2016-02-23 for adjustable headgear.
This patent grant is currently assigned to KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.. The grantee listed for this patent is Peter Chi Fai Ho, Elizabeth Powell Margaria, Justin Rothermel. Invention is credited to Peter Chi Fai Ho, Elizabeth Powell Margaria, Justin Rothermel.
United States Patent |
9,265,909 |
Ho , et al. |
February 23, 2016 |
Adjustable headgear
Abstract
An adjustable headgear assembly (10) for securing a respiratory
interface device (26) to the head of a patient that includes a
headgear member (12) that fits over the crown and back portion of a
human head. The headgear member (12) has upper side portions (14)
positionable above and forward of the ears of a human head and
lower side portions (16) positionable below the ears and along the
back portion of the head. A pair of upper retention members (20)
are provided. Each pair of upper retention members (20) extends
downwardly and forwardly from the upper side portions (14). A pair
of lower retention members (30) extend forwardly and upwardly from
each of the side portions. Each pair of upper (20) and lower (30)
retention members are structured to engage a respiratory interface
device (26).
Inventors: |
Ho; Peter Chi Fai (Pittsburgh,
PA), Margaria; Elizabeth Powell (Pittsburgh, PA),
Rothermel; Justin (Monroeville, PA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ho; Peter Chi Fai
Margaria; Elizabeth Powell
Rothermel; Justin |
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
Monroeville |
PA
PA
PA |
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
(Eindhoven, NL)
|
Family
ID: |
41697791 |
Appl.
No.: |
13/141,201 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2009 |
PCT
Filed: |
November 21, 2009 |
PCT No.: |
PCT/IB2009/055264 |
371(c)(1),(2),(4) Date: |
June 21, 2011 |
PCT
Pub. No.: |
WO2010/073142 |
PCT
Pub. Date: |
July 01, 2010 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20110253143 A1 |
Oct 20, 2011 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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61140304 |
Dec 23, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M
16/0683 (20130101); A61M 2210/0618 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61M
16/06 (20060101); A62B 18/02 (20060101); A62B
18/08 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;128/200.24,202.27,205.25,206.21,206.27,207.11,207.17,200.26,201.11,201.15,201.18,201.19,201.22,201.23,201.24,201.25,202.28,204.17,204.18,204.23,204.27,205.13,205.23,205.24,205.27,205.29,206.11,206.12,206.13,206.14,206.15,206.16,206.17,206.18,206.19,206.23,206.24,206.25,206.26,206.28,206.29,207.12,207.13,207.14,207.18,845,846,848,912,DIG.26
;2/171.2,173,174,206,416,421,422,424,425,428,452,5,6.2,9
;24/197,198,200,3.13,487,562,479.09,DIG.53 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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1735439 |
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Feb 2006 |
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CN |
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2006505310 |
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Feb 2006 |
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JP |
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2008541955 |
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Nov 2008 |
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JP |
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WO0074758 |
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Dec 2000 |
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WO |
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WO2005086943 |
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Sep 2005 |
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WO |
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WO2007133332 |
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Nov 2007 |
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WO |
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WO2008106716 |
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Sep 2008 |
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WO |
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Primary Examiner: Dixon; Annette
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Haas; Michael W.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This patent application claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/140,304 filed
on Dec. 23, 2008, the contents of which are herein incorporated by
reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An adjustable headgear assembly comprising: a headgear member
structured to fit over the crown and back portion of a human head,
said headgear member having upper side portions positionable at
least one of above and forward of the ears of a human head and
lower side portions positionable at least one of below the ears of
a human head and along the back portion of a human head; a pair of
upper retention members, one of said pair of upper retention
members extending downwardly and forwardly from each of said upper
side portions; and a pair of lower retention members, one of said
pair of lower retention members extending forwardly and upwardly
from each of said lower side portions, wherein: each upper
retention member of said pair of upper retention members is
positioned and structured to engage a respiratory interface device
in a manner which imparts an upward connecting force on the
respiratory interface device in an upward direction, wherein each
lower retention member of said pair of lower retention members is
positioned and structured to engage the respiratory interface
device in a manner which imparts a downward connecting force on the
respiratory interface device in a downward direction distinct from
the upward direction, one of the upper retention members comprises
a first portion of a first cord-like unitary member and a
corresponding one of the lower retention members comprises a second
portion of the first cord-like unitary member, the other of the
upper retention members comprises a first portion of a second
cord-like unitary member, and a corresponding one of the lower
retention members comprises a second portion of the second
cord-like unitary member, and each unitary member includes (a) a
first end coupled to one of the upper side portions, (b) an
opposite second end coupled to a corresponding one of the lower
side portions, and (c) an intermediate portion disposed between the
first end and the opposite second end, said intermediate portion
being structured to slidably engage a vertically extending portion
of a respiratory interface device along a vertical axis of the
vertically extending portion.
2. The headgear assembly of claim 1, wherein each upper side
portion includes a reinforcement member coupled thereto.
3. The headgear assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the upper
retention members and each of the lower retention members are
adjustably coupled to the headgear member.
4. The headgear assembly of claim 1, wherein said headgear member
further includes a secondary adjustment member having a first end
and an opposite second end, said first end being coupled to one of
the upper side portions and said second end being adjustably
coupled to a corresponding one of the lower side portions.
5. The headgear assembly of claim 4, wherein the second end of said
secondary adjustment member is further coupled to the opposite
second end of said unitary member.
6. The headgear assembly of claim 1, wherein the first cord-like
unitary member and the second cord-like unitary member comprise
portions of a single unitary member.
7. The headgear assembly of claim 6, wherein said single unitary
member is adjustably coupled to said headgear member.
8. The headgear assembly of claim 7, wherein each of the lower side
portions include an upward extending portion that terminates at an
adjustable portion, the adjustable portion engaging a respective
one of the upper retention members.
9. The headgear assembly of claim 1, wherein each cord-like unitary
member is an elastic member.
10. The headgear assembly of claim 1, wherein each upper retention
member extends downwardly at an angle of between 5 degrees and 40
degrees and each lower retention member extends upwardly at an
angle of between 5 degrees and 25 degrees.
11. A patient interface assembly comprising: (a) a respiratory
interface device structured to sealingly engage about one or more
of the nose and mouth of a patient, the respiratory interface
device comprising a vertically extending portion; and (b) a
headgear assembly comprising: (1) a headgear member structured to
fit over the crown and back portion of a human head, said headgear
member having upper side portions positionable at least one of
above and forward of the ears of a human head and lower side
portions positionable at least one of below the ears of a human
head and along the back portion of a human head; (2) a pair of
upper retention members, one of said pair of upper retention
members extending downwardly and forwardly from each of said upper
side portions; and (3) a pair of lower retention members, one of
said pair of lower retention members extending forwardly and
upwardly from each of said lower side portions, wherein each upper
retention member of said pair of upper retention members engages
the respiratory interface device in a manner which imparts an first
connecting force on the respiratory interface device directed in an
upward direction, wherein each lower retention member of said pair
of lower retention members engages the respiratory interface device
in a manner which imparts a second connecting force on the
respiratory interface device directed in a downward direction,
wherein one of the upper retention members comprises a first
portion of a first cord-like unitary member and a corresponding one
of the lower retention members comprises a second portion of the
first cord-like unitary member, wherein the other of the upper
retention members comprises a first portion of a second cord-like
unitary member, and a corresponding one of the lower retention
members comprises a second portion of the second cord-like unitary
member wherein each unitary member includes: (i) a first end
coupled to one of the upper side portions; (ii) an opposite second
end coupled to a corresponding one of the lower side portions; and
(iii) an intermediate portion disposed between the first end and
the opposite second end, said intermediate portion slidably
engaging the vertically extending portion of a respiratory
interface device along a vertical axis of the vertically extending
portion.
12. The patient interface assembly of claim 11, wherein each upper
retention member extends downwardly at an angle of between 5
degrees and 40 degrees and each lower retention member extends
upwardly at an angle of between 5 degrees and 25 degrees.
13. The patient interface assembly of claim 11, wherein each upper
side portion includes a reinforcement member coupled thereto.
14. The patient interface assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the
upper retention members and each of the lower retention members are
adjustably coupled to the headgear member.
15. The patient interface assembly of claim 11, wherein said
headgear member further includes a secondary adjustment member
having a first end and an opposite second end, said first end being
coupled to one of the upper side portions and said second end being
adjustably coupled to a corresponding one of the lower side
portions.
16. The patient interface assembly of claim 15, wherein the second
end of said secondary adjustment member is further coupled to the
opposite second end of said unitary member.
17. The patient interface assembly of claim 11, wherein the first
cord-like unitary member and the second cord-like unitary member
comprise portions of a single unitary member.
18. The patient interface assembly of claim 17, wherein said single
unitary member is adjustably coupled to said headgear member.
19. The patient interface assembly of claim 18, wherein each of the
lower side portions include an upward extending portion that
terminates at an adjustable portion, the adjustable portion
engaging a respective one of the upper retention members.
20. The patient interface assembly of claim 11, wherein each
cord-like unitary member is an elastic member.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates generally to adjustable headgear assemblies
and, more particularly, to adjustable headgear assemblies used in
conjunction with respiratory interface devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Respiratory interface devices are used for various reasons.
Typically a respiratory interface device includes a mask portion
interconnected with a source of breathable fluid to be inhaled by a
patient. Examples of uses of these devices include the delivery of
anesthesia, non-invasive ventilation, and for providing positive
air pressure to a patient in the treatment of obstructive sleep
apnea. In the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, positive air
pressure is provided to a patient while the patient is
sleeping.
Accordingly, in uses such as the treatment of obstructive sleep
apnea, mask comfort is important to ensure that the patient may
sleep and also to ensure that the patient complies with the
treatment. For the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, the mask
must provide a sufficient seal to enable pressure to be maintained
within the airway of the patient.
Typical respiratory interface devices are bulbous and enclose a
large portion of the nose and engage the face of the patient.
Additionally, such devices are typically secured to a patient's
head via the use of multiple straps and other apparatus. It is
common for such devices to include a forehead support and related
straps to counteract the forces exerted on the device by the
conduit or other member supplying the breathable fluid to the mask
and thus maintain proper alignment of the mask. These devices tend
to be cumbersome to position and secure on a patient's head and
also produce a claustrophobic effect on the patient. Examples of
such devices and related headgear can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,517,986; 6,119,694, and 7,069,932.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In one embodiment, the invention provides an adjustable headgear
assembly comprising a headgear member structured to fit over the
crown and back portion of a human head. The headgear member
includes upper side portions positionable at least one of above and
forward of the ears of a human head and lower side portions
positionable at least one of below the ears of a human head and
along the back portion of a human head. The headgear assembly
further comprises a pair of upper retention members, one of the
pair of upper retention members extending downwardly and forwardly
from each of the upper side portions and a pair of lower retention
members, one of the pair of lower retention members extending
forwardly and upwardly from each of the lower side portions. Each
of the pair of upper retention members and each of the pair of
lower retention members are structured to engage a respiratory
interface device.
The pair of upper retention members and the pair of lower retention
members may be structured to adjustably retain the respiratory
interface device on a human head. Each of the pair of upper
retention members may extend downwardly at an angle of between 5
degrees and 40 degrees and each of the pair of lower retention
members may extend upwardly at an angle of between 5 degrees and 25
degrees. Each of the pair of upper retention members may comprise a
strap member having a hook and loop portion structured to
adjustably engage the respiratory interface device and each of the
lower retention members may comprise a strap member having a hook
and loop portion structured to adjustably engage the respiratory
interface device.
The upper retention members and the lower retention members may be
integrally formed with the headgear member. Each upper side portion
may include a reinforcement member coupled thereto. Each of the
upper strap members may be adjustably coupled to a respective one
of the upper side portions. Each of the upper retention members may
include an elastic portion and each of the lower retention members
may include an elastic portion. Each of the upper retention members
and each of the lower retention members may be adjustably coupled
to the headgear member. One of the upper elastic members may
comprise a first portion of a unitary elastic member and a
corresponding one of the lower elastic members may comprise a
second portion of the unitary elastic member. Each of the upper
retention members may include a generally inelastic portion and
each of the lower retention members may include a generally
inelastic portion. Each of the upper retention members may comprise
a first portion of a unitary member and a corresponding one of the
lower retention members may comprise a second portion of a unitary
member.
Each unitary member may include a first end coupled to one of the
upper side portions, an opposite second end adjustably coupled to a
corresponding one of the lower side portions, and an intermediate
portion disposed between the first end and the opposite second end,
with the intermediate portion being structured to engage a
respiratory interface device. Each unitary member may include a
first end adjustably coupled to one of the upper side portions, an
opposite second end coupled to a corresponding one of the lower
side portions, and an intermediate portion disposed between the
first end and the opposite second end, the intermediate portion
being structured to engage a respiratory interface device. Each
unitary member may include a first end adjustably coupled to one of
the upper side portions, an opposite second end adjustably coupled
to a corresponding one of the lower side portions, and an
intermediate portion disposed between the first end and the
opposite second end, with the intermediate portion being structured
to engage a respiratory interface device.
The headgear member may further include a secondary adjustment
member having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end
being coupled to one of the upper side portions and the second end
being adjustably coupled to a corresponding one of the lower side
portions. The second end of the secondary adjustment member may be
further coupled to the opposite second end of the unitary member.
The other one of the upper retention members may comprise a fourth
portion of the elastic member and the other one of the lower
retention members may comprise a third portion of the unitary
member. The unitary member may be adjustably coupled to the
headgear member. Each of the lower side portions may include an
upward extending portion terminating at an adjustable portion, the
adjustable portion engaging a respective one of the upper retention
members.
These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the
present invention, as well as the methods of operation and
functions of the related elements of structure and the combination
of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent
upon consideration of the following description and the appended
claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which
form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals
designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be
expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the
purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended
as a definition of the limits of the invention. As used in the
specification and in the claims, the singular form of "a", "an",
and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a side view of a headgear assembly in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention shown positioned on a human head;
FIGS. 2-8 are side views of headgear assemblies in accordance with
other embodiments of the invention shown positioned on a human
head;
FIG. 9 shows a schematic representation of the forces exerted on a
tip of the nose interface device by headgear assemblies in
accordance with embodiments of the invention; and
FIG. 10 shows a schematic representation of the forces exerted on a
oral-nasal interface device by headgear assemblies in accordance
with embodiments of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example and without
limitation, top, bottom, left, right, upper, lower, front, back,
forward, rearward, above and below and derivatives thereof, relate
to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and are
not limiting upon the claims unless expressly recited therein.
As employed herein, the statement that two or more parts or
components are "coupled" together shall mean that the parts are
joined or operate together either directly or through one or more
intermediate parts or components. As employed herein, the term
"number" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a
plurality).
One potential solution to providing less cumbersome respiratory
interface devices has been to try to reduce the amount of mounting
points and strap members associated with the headgear used in
conjunction with a given respiratory interface device. However,
most headgears with only a 2-point mounting fail to provide a
stable mounting on the patient due to the lack of upper and lower
force vectors acting on the respiratory interface device that is
typically present in most 4-point or 3-point headgears.
The present invention keeps the minimum 2-point mounting attachment
with the interface by introducing a dual force strapping connection
to achieve maximum stability while minimizing the invasiveness of
the respiratory interface device and associated headgear assembly.
Accordingly, the invention is directed to a headgear with two (2)
mounting points that provides four (4) connecting forces in
distinctive upper (F.sub.x1, F.sub.y1) and lower (F.sub.x2,
F.sub.y2) vectors. The result is a headgear with minimum contact
providing maximum stability ideally for lower mounting interfaces
focusing in the lower half of the face either with tip of the nose
coverage or oral-nasal masks. FIGS. 9 and 10, respectively, show
examples of the desired forces acting on a tip-of-the-nose device
and an oral-nasal mask. The present invention contemplates that,
the mounting angle .theta. of the upper attachment strap is between
five (5) degrees (minimum) and forty (40) degrees (maximum) above
the horizontal.
The primary limitation on the placement of the upper straps is the
location of the corner of the eyes of a user. Mounting angle .phi.
of the lower straps is between five (5) degrees (minimum) and
twenty to twenty-five (20-25) degrees (maximum) below the
horizontal. The minimum lower strap range is generally limited by
the location of the ear lobes. Additionally, the maximum lower
strap range is limited by the base of the neck, if the strap is too
low on the neck this will be uncomfortable for patients, and
possibly give the impression that the headgear is slipping down. It
is to be appreciated that such angle ranges are given for example
purposes only and that mounting angles outside of such ranges may
be employed in certain applications. In such applications, it is
desirable to attempt to maximize the mounting angle between the
upper and lower attachment straps.
FIG. 1 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 10 according to an
embodiment of the invention that is structured to adjustably retain
a respiratory interface device 26 on a human head 8. Headgear
assembly 10 includes a headgear member 12 structured to fit over
the crown and back portion of human head 8. Headgear member 12
includes a pair of upper side portions 14 (only one shown in FIG.
1) positioned on either side of head 8 generally above and forward
of each ear and a pair of lower side portions 16 positioned
generally along a back portion of head 8.
In an exemplary embodiment, upper side portions 14 and lower side
portions 16 are integrally formed with, and from the same material
as headgear member 12. According to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, headgear member 12 is made of either stretchable
or non stretchable fabric, such as made from weaving, knitting,
crocheting, knotting, felting or foam lamination. The present
invention contemplates using multiple materials on one headgear
such as a non stretchable foam lamination member 12 and stretchable
fabric such as elastic band for retention members such as 20 and 30
as will be discussed below. Additionally, such materials may be
breathable.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, headgear assembly 10 further
includes a pair of strap-like upper retention members 20 (only one
shown in FIG. 1) and a pair of strap-like lower retention members
30 (only one shown in FIG. 1). Each upper retention member 20
includes a first portion (not numbered) coupled to one of upper
side portions 14 and a second portion 22 adjustably coupled to a
clip member 23 of mask portion 24 of a respiratory interface device
26, such that each upper retention member 20 extends generally
downward and forward from a respective one of upper side portions
14 to mask portion 24. Each lower retention member 30 includes a
first portion (not numbered) coupled to one of lower side portions
16 and a second portion 32 adjustably coupled to clip member 23
such that each lower retention member 30 extends generally forward
from a respective one of lower side portions 16 to mask portion 24.
The present invention contemplates that lower retention members 30
engages clip member 23 at or near the points of engagement of upper
retention members 20.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, upper retention members 20 and
lower retention members 30 are integrally formed with headgear
member 12. Additionally, the adjustable coupling of each upper
retention member 20 and each lower retention member 30 to mask
portion 24 may be accomplished through the use of a hook and loop
fastening mechanism (as shown in FIG. 1) or with other suitable
means.
The present contemplates that each upper side portions 14 are
stiffened, or reinforced, such as through inclusion of a
reinforcement member 40 that is provided to each side of headgear
member 12 and substantially overlaps each upper side portion 14.
Each reinforcement member 40 may be formed from a rigid or
semi-rigid material such as, without limitation, silicone,
polyurethane, or foam, which is not limited to fabric. It is to be
appreciated that a wide variety of sewing techniques such as
stitching and piping can be used to stiffen up the fabric or
fabrics to create a frame without the need for inserting other
materials.
FIG. 2 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 110 according to an
another embodiment of the invention. Headgear assembly 110 includes
a headgear member 112 structured to fit over the crown and back
portion of human head 8. Headgear member 112 may be made from any
fabric such as previously described or similar thereto. However,
due to the structural nature of the member, headgear member 112 may
be made from a stiff, non-stretchable fabric. Headgear member 112
includes a pair of upper side portions 114 (only one shown in FIG.
2) positioned on either side of head 8 generally above each ear and
a pair of lower side portions 116 positioned generally along a back
portion of head 8. In an exemplary embodiment, upper side portions
114 and lower side portions 116 are integrally formed with, and
from the same material as headgear member 112.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 2, headgear assembly 110 further
includes a pair of strap-like upper retention members 120 (only one
shown in FIG. 2) and a pair of strap-like lower retention members
130 (only one shown in FIG. 2). Each upper retention member 120
includes a first portion 121 adjustably coupled to one of upper
side portions 114 and a second portion 122 adjustably coupled to a
mask portion 124 of a respiratory interface device 126 such that
each upper retention member 120 extends generally downward and
forward from a respective one of upper side portions 114 to mask
portion 124. Each lower retention member 130 includes a first
portion (not numbered) coupled to one of lower side portions 116
and a second portion 132 adjustably coupled to mask portion 124
such that each lower retention member 130 extends generally forward
from a respective one of lower side portions 116 to mask portion
124. The present invention contemplates that lower retention
members 130 engages mask portion 124 at or near the points of
engagement of upper retention members 120.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, lower retention members 130 are
integrally formed with headgear member 112. Additionally, the
adjustable couplings of each upper retention member 120 and each
lower retention member 130 may be accomplished through the use of a
hook and loop fastening mechanism (as shown in FIG. 2) or with
other suitable means.
FIG. 3 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 210 according to
another embodiment of the invention. Headgear assembly 210 includes
a headgear member 212 structured to fit over the crown and back
portion of human head 8. The present invention contemplates that
headgear member 212 is made of either stretchable or non
stretchable fabric, such as made from weaving, knitting,
crocheting, knotting, felting or foam lamination. It is common to
use multiple materials on one headgear such as elastic band for
retention members 220 and 230 as will be discussed below.
Additionally, such materials may be breathable. Headgear member 212
includes a pair of upper side portions 214 (only one shown in FIG.
3) positioned on either side of head 8, generally above each ear,
and a pair of lower side portions 216 positioned generally along a
back portion of head 8.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, headgear assembly 210 further
includes a pair of upper retention members 220 (only one shown in
FIG. 3) and a pair of lower retention members 230 (only one shown
in FIG. 3). Each upper retention member 220 includes a first
portion 221 adjustably coupled to one of upper side portions 214
and an opposite second portion 222 coupled to a mask portion 224 of
respiratory interface device 226 such that each upper retention
member 220 extends generally downward and forward from a respective
one of upper side portions 214 to mask portion 224. Each lower
retention member 230 includes a first portion 231 adjustably
coupled to one of lower side portions 216 and a second portion 232
coupled to mask portion 224 such that each lower retention member
230 extends generally forward and upward from a respective one of
lower side portions 216 to mask portion 224. Such adjustable
couplings may be accomplished through the use of a hook and loop
fastening mechanism 250 as shown generally in hidden line in FIG. 3
or with other suitable means.
Each upper retention member 220 further includes an intermediate
portion 223 that, in an exemplary embodiment, includes an elastic
portion (e.g., without limitation, elastic straps). Similarly, each
lower retention member 230 further includes an intermediate portion
233 that, in an exemplary embodiment, includes an elastic portion
(e.g., without limitation, elastic strap). The present invention
contemplates that such elastic portion may be formed of spandex
polyester with an elongation in the range of 150-200%.
As further shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3, first portions 221,
231 of upper and lower retention members 220 and 230 are coupled
together by transverse member 240. Additionally, second portions
222, 232 are coupled together by mask engaging member 242 such that
second portions 222, 232 generally engage mask portion 224 at a
common location.
FIG. 4 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 310 according to an
other embodiment of the invention that is structured to adjustably
retain a respiratory interface device 326 on a human head 8.
Headgear assembly 310 includes a headgear member 312 structured to
fit over the crown and back portion of human head 8. Headgear
member 312 includes a pair of upper side portions 314 (only one
shown in FIG. 4) positioned on either side of head 8, generally
above and forward of each ear, and a pair of lower side portions
316 positioned generally below and rearward from each ear along a
back portion of head 8. In an exemplary embodiment, upper side
portions 314 and lower side portions 316 are integrally formed
with, and from the same material as headgear member 312. The
present invention contemplates that headgear member 312 is made of
either stretchable or non stretchable fabric, such as made from
weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, felting or foam
lamination. Additionally, such materials are may be breathable.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 4, headgear assembly 310 further
includes a pair of upper retention members 320 (only one shown in
FIG. 4) and a pair of lower retention members 330 (only one shown
in FIG. 4). In the embodiment of FIG. 4, upper retention member 320
and lower retention member 330 shown are separate portions of a
unitary member 350 that, in an exemplary embodiment, is a cord-like
member (e.g., without limitation, bungee cord, nylon cord). Unitary
member 350 includes a first end portion 352 coupled to one of upper
side portions 314, an opposite second end portion 354 adjustably
coupled to a corresponding one of the lower side portions 316, and
an intermediate portion 356 disposed between first end portion 352
and opposite second end portion 354. Intermediate portion 356 is
structured to slidably engage a portion 325 of mask portion 324. As
shown in FIG. 4, each upper retention member 320 extends generally
downward and forward from a respective one of upper side portions
314 toward mask portion 324. As further shown in FIG. 4, each lower
retention member 330 extends generally forward and upward from a
respective one of lower side portions 316 to mask portion 324.
In order to provide stiffness to upper side portions 314, a
reinforcement member 340 is provided to each side of headgear
member 312 substantially overlapping each upper side portion 314.
Each reinforcement member 340 is, in an exemplary embodiment,
formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material such as, without
limitation, silicone, polyurethane, or foam. It is to be
appreciated that a wide variety of sewing techniques such as
stitching and piping can be used to stiffen the fabric or fabrics
to create a frame. Such techniques may be employed in conjunction
with, or in lieu of, the reinforcement members 340.
FIG. 5 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 410 according to
another embodiment of the invention that is structured to
adjustably retain a respiratory interface device 426 on a human
head 8. Headgear assembly 410 includes a headgear member 412
structured to fit over the crown and back portion of human head 8.
Headgear member 412 includes a pair of upper side portions 414
(only one shown in FIG. 5) positioned on either side of head 8
generally above and forward of each ear and a pair of lower side
portions 416 positioned generally below and rearward from each ear
along a back portion of head 8. In an exemplary embodiment, upper
side portions 414 and lower side portions 416 are integrally formed
with, and from the same material as headgear member 412. Headgear
member 412 is, in an exemplary embodiment, made of either
stretchable or non stretchable fabric, such as made from weaving,
knitting, crocheting, knotting, felting or foam lamination. Such
materials may be made breathable.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 5, headgear assembly 410 further
includes a pair of upper retention members 420 (only one shown in
FIG. 5) and a pair of lower retention members 430 (only one shown
in FIG. 5). In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the upper retention member
420 and the lower retention member 430 shown are separate portions
of a unitary member 450 that is, in an exemplary embodiment, a
cord-like member (e.g., without limitation, bungee cord, nylon
cord). Unitary member 450 includes a first end portion 452 coupled
to one of upper side portions 414 at one of a number of locations
460 that provide for adjustment of the placement of the upper
retention member 420 with respect to a user's eye.
Unitary member 450 further includes an opposite second end portion
454 adjustably coupled to a corresponding one of lower side
portions 416 and an intermediate portion 456 disposed between first
end portion 452 and opposite second end portion 454. Intermediate
portion 456 being structured to slidably engage a portion 425 of
mask portion 424. As shown in FIG. 5, each upper retention member
420 extends generally downward and forward from a respective one of
upper side portions 414 toward mask portion 424. As further shown
in FIG. 5, each lower retention member 430 extends generally
forward and upward from a respective one of lower side portions 416
to mask portion 424.
In order to provide stiffness to upper side portions 414, a
reinforcement member 440 is provided to each side of headgear
member 412 substantially overlapping each upper side portion 414.
Each reinforcement member 440 is, in an exemplary embodiment, made
from a semi rigid polymer such as, without limitation EVA
copolymer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, vinyl, that
is formed through injection molding or die cutting.
FIG. 6 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 510 according to an
embodiment of the invention that is structured to adjustably retain
a respiratory interface device 526 on a human head 8. Headgear
assembly 510 includes a headgear member 512 structured to fit over
the crown and back portion of human head 8. Headgear member 512
includes a pair of upper side portions 514 (only one shown in FIG.
6) positioned on either side of head 8 generally above and forward
of each ear and a pair of lower side portions 516 positioned
generally below and rearward from each ear along a back portion of
head 8. In an exemplary embodiment, upper side portions 514 and
lower side portions 516 are integrally formed with, and from the
same material as headgear member 512. Headgear member 512 is, in an
exemplary embodiment, made of either stretchable or non stretchable
fabric, such as made from weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting,
felting, or foam lamination. Such materials may be breathable.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 6, headgear assembly 510 further
includes a pair of upper retention members 520 (only one shown in
FIG. 6) and a pair of lower retention members 530 (only one shown
in FIG. 6). In the embodiment of FIG. 6, upper retention member 520
and lower retention member 530 shown are separate portions of a
unitary member 550 that is, in an exemplary embodiment, a cord-like
member (e.g., without limitation, bungee cord, nylon cord). Unitary
member 550 includes a first end portion 552 coupled to one of upper
side portions 514, an opposite second end portion 554 adjustably
coupled to a corresponding one of lower side portions 516, and an
intermediate portion 556 disposed between first end portion 552 and
opposite second end portion 554. Intermediate portion 556 being
structured to slidably engage a portion 525 of mask portion 524. As
shown in FIG. 6, each upper retention member 520 extends generally
downward and forward from a respective one of upper side portions
514 toward mask portion 524. As further shown in FIG. 6, each lower
retention member 530 extends generally forward and upward from a
respective one of lower side portions 516 to mask portion 524.
Headgear member 512 further includes a pair of secondary adjustment
members 560 (only one shown in FIG. 6). Each of secondary
adjustment members 560 having a first end 562 coupled to one of
upper side portions 514 and an opposite second end 564 adjustably
coupled to a corresponding one of lower side portions 516. In an
embodiment, the opposite second end of each of secondary adjustment
members 560 is further coupled to opposite second end 554 of
unitary member 550. It can be readily appreciated that such
arrangement allows for rapid adjustment of headgear assembly 510 by
tightening or loosening at two locations 570 (only one location
shown in FIG. 6).
FIG. 7 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 610 according to
another embodiment of the invention that is structured to
adjustably retain a respiratory interface device 626 on a human
head 8. Headgear assembly 610 includes a headgear member 612
structured to fit over the crown and back portion of human head 8.
Headgear member 612 includes a pair of upper side portions 614
(only one shown in FIG. 7) positioned on either side of head 8
generally above each ear and a pair of lower side portions 616
positioned generally below each ear. In an exemplary embodiment,
upper side portions 614 and lower side portions 616 are integrally
formed with, and from the same material as headgear member 612.
Headgear member 612 is, in an exemplary embodiment, made of either
stretchable or non stretchable fabric, such as made from weaving,
knitting, crocheting, knotting, felting or foam lamination. Such
materials may be breathable.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 7, headgear assembly 610 further
includes a pair of upper retention members 620 (only one shown in
FIG. 7), each depending from upper side portions 614, and a pair of
lower retention members 630 (only one shown in FIG. 7) each
generally extending forward and upward from lower side portions
616. Each lower side portion 616, in an exemplary embodiment,
further includes an upward extending portion 670 that terminates at
an adjustable portion 672 that engages a respective one of upper
retention members 620 and may generally deflect upper retention
member 620 away from the eye (not numbered) of a user. Such
adjustable portion may include a hook and loop or other suitable
fastener.
In the embodiment of FIG. 7, each one of the pair of upper
retention members 620 and each one of the pair of lower retention
members 630 are separate portions of a unitary member 650. Unitary
member 650 is, in an exemplary embodiment, a cord-like member
(e.g., without limitation, bungee cord, nylon cord). Unitary member
650 is shown as a continuous loop having a portion 652 that is
adjustably coupled to an upper rear portion 660 of headgear member
612. Unitary member 650 may also be formed from a member having two
ends (not shown), with the two ends being adjustable coupled to the
upper rear portion 660. Unitary member 650 slidably engages
headgear member 612 at each of upper side portions 614 as well as
at each of lower side portions 616. Additionally, a portion 656 of
unitary member 650 slidably engages a portion 625 of mask portion
624.
It is to be appreciated that such arrangement allows for rapid
adjustment of headgear assembly 610 by tightening or loosening
unitary member 650 at one location 670. Although FIG. 7 shows
unitary member 650 adjustably coupled to upper rear portion 660, it
can be readily appreciated that such adjustable coupling to
headgear member 612 could be made substantially anywhere and still
provide similar benefits.
FIG. 8 shows a side view of a headgear assembly 710 according to
another embodiment of the invention that is structured to
adjustably retain a respiratory interface device 726 on a human
head 8. Headgear assembly 710 includes a headgear member 712
structured to fit over the crown and back portion of human head 8.
Headgear member 712 includes a pair of upper side portions 714
(only one shown in FIG. 8) positioned on either side of head 8
generally forward and above each ear and a pair of lower side
portions 716 (only one shown in FIG. 8) positioned generally below
each ear. In an exemplary embodiment, upper side portions 714 and
lower side portions 716 are integrally formed with, and from the
same material as headgear member 712. Headgear member 712, in an
exemplary embodiment, is made of either stretchable or non
stretchable fabric, such as made from weaving, knitting,
crocheting, knotting, felting or foam lamination. Such materials
may be breathable.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 8, headgear assembly 710 further
includes a pair of upper retention members 720 (only one shown in
FIG. 8) and a pair of lower retention members 730 (only one shown
in FIG. 8). In the embodiment of FIG. 8, upper retention member 720
and lower retention member 730 shown are separate portions of a
unitary member 750 that are, in an exemplary embodiment, made from
a cord-like member (e.g., without limitation, bungee cord, nylon
cord). Unitary member 750 includes a first end portion 752
adjustably coupled to one of the upper side portions 714, an
opposite second end portion 754 adjustably coupled to a
corresponding one of lower side portions 716, and an intermediate
portion 756 disposed between first end portion 752 and opposite
second end portion 754. Intermediate portion 756 being structured
to slidably engage a portion 725 of mask portion 724. As shown in
FIG. 8, each upper retention member 720 extends generally downward
and forward from a respective one of upper side portions 714 toward
to portion 725. As further shown in FIG. 8, each lower retention
member 730 extends generally forward and upward from a respective
one of lower side portions 716 to portion 725.
It can be readily appreciated that such arrangement allows for
rapid adjustment of headgear assembly 710 by tightening or
loosening at two locations 770 (only one location shown in FIG.
8).
While exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described
and illustrated herein in conjunction with tip-of-the-nose
respiratory interface devices, it is to be readily appreciated that
the concepts disclosed herein may readily be applied to oral-nasal
masks as well as to other mask assemblies.
Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose
of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the
most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood
that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention
is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary,
is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that
are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For
example, it is to be understood that the present invention
contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of
any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any
other embodiment.
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